Jorge Costa in the frame as Santos prepares to step down at PAOK

Portuguese to hand over to compatriot?

Greek club PAOK FC have called a press conference for Tuesday, during which they are expected to announce the departure of coach Fernando Santos.

Santos recently guided the Thessaloniki club into the Champions League via the end of season play-offs. Given that the team failed at the same stage last season, the achievement is a huge boost for PAOK, who are potential opponents for Sporting Braga in the third qualifying round phase of the competition.

Despite the successful campaign and Santos’ vast popularity in Greece, reports have persisted for months in the national press that the former Benfica coach would step down at the end of the season. Although no official reason has been given for the press conference tomorrow, it is widely expected that Santos will confirm his departure.

Several candidates have been mooted as possible replacements, with Jorge Costa thought to be favourite for the position after leaving Olhanense earlier this month. Costa is believed to be the personal choice of PAOK director Sergio Conceicao, who is a hugely influential figure in club decisions.